I'm working on a project that requires cutting over 70 pieces from 3/4 and 1/2 inch plywood, primarily for drawers. I'm curious if a 140 tooth blade (which has no gullets) is really better than a 60 tooth blade. I plan to use a circular saw for cutting sheets and will finish up on either the table saw or the circular saw. I have the setup to make it work on the table saw, but handling large sheets has become a bit challenging at my age. I also have an 80 tooth Dewalt blade available. Any advice would be appreciated!
5 Answers
To make things easier, break down your sheets with the circular saw, then do the finish cuts on the table saw. If you're using laminated plywood, just remember to place the finished side face down for the cleanest cut possible.
You might not find an 80 tooth circular saw blade for wood because the tooth count on a 7 1/4" blade at 60 teeth is actually denser than an 80 tooth 10" blade. So, it makes sense you're running into difficulty finding one.
An 80 tooth cross cut blade is great for clean cuts in plywood. I've been using a Diablo 80 tooth blade for some nightstands and it leaves super clean edges. I've tried a 60 tooth blade and while it does a decent job, the 80 tooth is just way better for finish work.
Thanks for that tip! I'll stick with the 80 tooth for clean cuts.
Definitely use the 80 tooth blade. The 140 tooth is a specialized blade that won't last long since it doesn't have carbide. You'll get much better results with the 80 tooth for your plywood.
I'd go with the 80 tooth blade. A 140 tooth blade is more suited for super fine cuts on small parts, but it can slow you down a lot. The 80 tooth will give you clean edges and let you cut quicker, which is better for your project with all those sheets.
That makes total sense! I appreciate the breakdown. I'll go with the 60 tooth on the circular saw and the 80 tooth on the table saw.